How to improve my C++ with open source projects

I am studying Computer Systems and Networks engineering at London South Bank University.I know a bit about object oriented programming languages like PHP, Java and about C++... and indeed would like to improve my knowledge of C++.But my knowledge is more from books. I have no experience on real projects.I was thinking in getting programming experience with open source projects. Do you think that is a good idea?I have just downloaded Microsoft Visual C++ (express) but I quite don't know where to start and am finding it difficult to use sites like Sourceforge or Google code to find C++ projects. Is there anyway, for instance, to filter my searches to find only projects done in C++ ??

I find it easy to go through code in a book but managing a project seems a pain.Do you know of any books or sites that help with managing a project, apart from dealing with the language itself.

I think I need a kick-start to help me start gaining experience. I would love to work as a programmer and C++ seems a good choice.Hope you can help me.